Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 11 June, during the Tashkent International Investment Forum, Saida Mirziyoyeva, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, delivered a keynote speech dedicated to the socio-economic development of Karakalpakstan.

In her address, she emphasized that the support and comprehensive development of the region is one of the core priorities of national policy.

“The future of Karakalpakstan is one of our foremost national priorities. We are not merely speaking about plans, but about concrete action. The government and the Presidential Administration have already launched programs, approved budgets, and established coordination groups,” said Saida Mirziyoyeva.

She noted that during her first visit to the region, she witnessed both the challenges — in healthcare, the environment, and education — and the vast untapped potential.

“The harsh climate here coexists with stunning natural beauty and unique opportunities for tourism. If we invest in human capital, the return will be immense: not only in terms of regional economic growth, but also in improving the quality of life for every resident,” she stressed.

Mirziyoyeva called on investors to visit Karakalpakstan and assess its opportunities firsthand: “Today, it is vital to think big — to envision what this region can become and how its development will shape the future of the entire country. A bright future is within reach. For everyone.”

She went on to highlight that with support from the international consulting firm Boston Consulting Group, a Sustainable Development Strategy for Karakalpakstan until 2035 has been developed, outlining four key priority sectors: energy, industry, agriculture, and tourism.

“At the heart of this strategy is the individual. This means job creation, infrastructure development, and investment in local communities,” explained the Presidential Assistant.

She also underscored the region’s competitive advantages — its potential for green energy development, reserves of natural gas, fertile land, and rich cultural heritage capable of serving as the foundation for a sustainable tourism sector.

“Our goal is not just to attract investment, but to ensure it delivers tangible benefits to people, supports local business, and creates a future for our youth,” Mirziyoyeva added.

In conclusion, she expressed gratitude to all partners already engaged in the development of Karakalpakstan and addressed the international business community:

“With warmth and conviction, I invite new partners — from Uzbekistan and around the world — to join us. Let us write a new chapter in Karakalpakstan’s success story together.”

Amanbay Orynbaev, Chairman of the Jokargy Kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, presented the region’s investment potential during the forum and invited investors to personally visit the republic on June 13 as part of a special tour.

“Karakalpakstan is a region with a rich history, a distinct culture, and tremendous business potential. We have everything needed — from strategic geographic location to a skilled labor force and developed infrastructure,” he emphasized.

Orynbaev noted that key transportation routes pass through the region, including 925 kilometers of railway, and that two international airports operate in Nukus and Muynak. The population of the region exceeds 2 million people, with over half under the age of 30 — creating a reliable and youthful workforce.

According to him, thanks to the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan, Karakalpakstan has become a focal point of government attention in recent years, significantly enhancing its investment appeal.

From 2020 to 2024, around 4,500 investment projects were implemented in the region, totaling approximately US$4 billion. These include projects in solar panel production, greenhouse construction, the development of ethnocultural clusters, and hotel infrastructure.

The share of foreign direct investment has increased 1.6 times over the past five years. As of now, 515 projects worth US$2.5 billion are being implemented in the region. Among them are the production of basalt-based thermal insulation materials, the construction of congress halls, five-star hotels, and poultry farms.

Future investment priorities have been identified in areas such as the chemical industry, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and food production, tourism, hospitality, and transportation.

“We offer a wide range of incentives for investors: up to 50% tax reductions, a 15% discount on electricity, simplified procedures for land acquisition and business registration, as well as deferred payment options for unused assets for up to seven years,” Orynbaev added.

He concluded by thanking international partners and invited all forum participants to take part in the investment tour to Karakalpakstan and see the conditions and opportunities for doing business firsthand.